Police say McLaughlin drove the van containing four mortar tubes and explosives-packed rounds, while McDaid was riding a motorcycle that was to be their getaway vehicle. Officers arrested both men Sunday as they drove into Londonderry.

A detective testified that the van contained an incendiary bomb designed to destroy the vehicle once the mortars were fired by timer. When arrested, McLaughlin was wearing rubber gloves and forensic covers on his shoes to avoid leaving evidence.